Every story has a character that saves the day with no recognition. Hiding in the shadows, heaving the hero’s burden, and never being fully appreciated.

With fitness, our forgotten character is food.

Many people believe that the only roadway to a healthy lifestyle is exercise. While it’s wonderful that people have made working out a habit, the results also rely on what you eat on a daily basis.

Now, I am no professional nutritionist, but I have had my fair share of experience with balancing my exercise and clean eating. When I began working out, I would do half-hearted exercises and run back to the cookies and salty chips that hid in my pantry. I used to wonder why nothing was changing. Once I realized that healthy food was just as valuable as the workouts I dedicated myself to, things did change. My body thanked me for stopping the extra salts and sugars, and I felt healthier and happier.

I may not have the credentials, but I can share what has worked for me. To keep myself full, I start my day with the protein package – eggs! To boost up my metabolism, I try to have as much fiber as possible. To achieve this, I eat berries and lentils. For a refreshing mid-day treat, I make myself a daily smoothie. Usually, it contains mixed berries, bananas, yogurt, and chia seeds. For dinner, I pace myself with slow, controlled bites. I have found that eating fast and drinking water with my food leaves me feeling heavy and unsatisfied, so I remain hydrated whenever I am not eating. Overall, if you have all of your food groups covered, you will find yourself eating and living more actively. Don’t let your inner child fool you. Healthiness can be delicious!

It is time for you to pursue those fitness goals.

And food is there to help.

Good luck, and stay balanced!